Take the Celebration With You

Maybe you make your way back to your hometown for every holiday. Maybe you prefer to jet off to some exotic locale. Or maybe you use those extra days off to visit friends, take a road trip or check out a seasonal spot. Regardless, travel at the holidays can be both a lot of fun and a lot of hassle. So be prepared!

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Leicester, England

Leicester, England

The Festival of Lights, as Diwali is known, celebrates the victory of good over evil, and is India's biggest and most important holiday of the year. Hindus, Sikhs and Jains celebrate the 5-day festival worldwide as well. The largest Diwali celebration outside of India takes place in Leicester, England’s Golden Mile section.9601280

The Festival of Lights, as Diwali is known, celebrates the victory of good over evil, and is India's biggest and most important holiday of the year. Hindus, Sikhs and Jains celebrate the 5-day festival worldwide as well. The largest Diwali celebration outside of India takes place in Leicester, England’s Golden Mile section.

Reuters/Darren Staples

Paramaribo, Suriname

Paramaribo, Suriname

Young boys chant prayers in celebration of Diwali at a children’s orphanage in Suriname’s capital city of Paramaribo. The South American country is home to a sizable population of Indian origin; nearly 40% of Suriname’s population descend from 19th-century contract workers from India.9601280

Young boys chant prayers in celebration of Diwali at a children’s orphanage in Suriname’s capital city of Paramaribo. The South American country is home to a sizable population of Indian origin; nearly 40% of Suriname’s population descend from 19th-century contract workers from India.

Reuters/Ranu Abhelakh

Paramaribo, Suriname

Paramaribo, Suriname

Children in Suriname dress up as Hindu goddesses on the eve of Diwali. On the left is Parvati, the goddess of power who gives life energy to all. She's also said to engage in an eternal game of winning and losing with her husband Lord Shiva. In recognition of that cosmic roughhousing, gambling (or playing cards) during Diwali is considered auspicious. Or maybe just a good excuse to gamble.9601280

Children in Suriname dress up as Hindu goddesses on the eve of Diwali. On the left is Parvati, the goddess of power who gives life energy to all. She's also said to engage in an eternal game of winning and losing with her husband Lord Shiva. In recognition of that cosmic roughhousing, gambling (or playing cards) during Diwali is considered auspicious. Or maybe just a good excuse to gamble.

Reuters/Ranu Abhelakh

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Young women put the finishing touches on a rangoli in a neighborhood courtyard. The decorative design, created with materials such as colored rice, flour and sand, as well as flower petals, symbolizes a sacred welcoming area for Hindu deities -- and is a common sight during Diwali. In the western Indian state of Gujarat, the day following Diwali also marks the New Year.9601280

Young women put the finishing touches on a rangoli in a neighborhood courtyard. The decorative design, created with materials such as colored rice, flour and sand, as well as flower petals, symbolizes a sacred welcoming area for Hindu deities -- and is a common sight during Diwali. In the western Indian state of Gujarat, the day following Diwali also marks the New Year.

Reuters/Amit Dave

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Different regions and faiths of India incorporate various narratives into the celebration. In Gujarat, the festival honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In North India, Lord Rama, after a 14-year exile. In South India, Lord Krishna, after his defeat of the demon Narakasura. In Jainism, the nirvana of Lord Mahavira. In Sikhism, the sixth Sikh guru's release from prison. The unifying theme: the victory of good over evil.9601280

Different regions and faiths of India incorporate various narratives into the celebration. In Gujarat, the festival honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In North India, Lord Rama, after a 14-year exile. In South India, Lord Krishna, after his defeat of the demon Narakasura. In Jainism, the nirvana of Lord Mahavira. In Sikhism, the sixth Sikh guru's release from prison. The unifying theme: the victory of good over evil.

Reuters/Amit Dave

Amritsar, Punjab

Amritsar, Punjab

Indian Sikhs light candles at their spiritual center, the Golden Temple, in Amritsar, India, for Diwali. Sikhs celebrate Diwali to mark the release from prison of their sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, along with 52 other political prisoners, by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. Sikhs celebrated the return of Guru Hargobind by lighting diyas around the Golden Temple. The tradition continues today.9601280

Indian Sikhs light candles at their spiritual center, the Golden Temple, in Amritsar, India, for Diwali. Sikhs celebrate Diwali to mark the release from prison of their sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, along with 52 other political prisoners, by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. Sikhs celebrated the return of Guru Hargobind by lighting diyas around the Golden Temple. The tradition continues today.

Narinder Nanu/AFP/Getty Images

The White House

The White House

President Obama extends greetings to Sri Narayanachar Digalakote, a Hindu priest and Sanskrit scholar, after lighting an oil lamp for Diwali at the White House. The holiday was first celebrated at the White House in 2003, with a public liaison officer hosting Indian Americans. Six years later, Barack Obama became the first US president to serve as Diwali host.9601280

President Obama extends greetings to Sri Narayanachar Digalakote, a Hindu priest and Sanskrit scholar, after lighting an oil lamp for Diwali at the White House. The holiday was first celebrated at the White House in 2003, with a public liaison officer hosting Indian Americans. Six years later, Barack Obama became the first US president to serve as Diwali host.

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Felicity, Trinidad

Felicity, Trinidad

Handmade diyas, or earthen oil lamps, add a personal touch to households celebrating Diwali. Here, a boy prepares a lamp at his family home in Trinidad-Tobago. The largest Hindu festival in the Caribbean nation, Diwali is celebrated with the symbolic lighting of diyas, each meant to dispel darkness. 9601280

Handmade diyas, or earthen oil lamps, add a personal touch to households celebrating Diwali. Here, a boy prepares a lamp at his family home in Trinidad-Tobago. The largest Hindu festival in the Caribbean nation, Diwali is celebrated with the symbolic lighting of diyas, each meant to dispel darkness.

Reuters/Andrea De Silva

Varanasi, India

Varanasi, India

A young woman lights an earthen lamp on the steps leading to the Ganges River. Every year, 15 days after Diwali, the steps leading to “Ganga” are adorned with more than 1 million lights in tribute to Hinduism’s most sacred river. The celebration, known as Dev Deepavali (meaning “light festival of gods”), is led by Hindu devotees in the city by its banks, Varanasi.9601280

A young woman lights an earthen lamp on the steps leading to the Ganges River. Every year, 15 days after Diwali, the steps leading to “Ganga” are adorned with more than 1 million lights in tribute to Hinduism’s most sacred river. The celebration, known as Dev Deepavali (meaning “light festival of gods”), is led by Hindu devotees in the city by its banks, Varanasi.

Reuters/Jitendra Prakas

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

A Hindu devotee's baby is placed on a temple floor for good luck during Diwali celebrations in the small town of Bangi, near Maylaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur. Hindus make up roughly 7% of Malaysia’s population of 25 million. However, Diwali is recognized in the predominantly Muslim country as an official holiday.9601280

A Hindu devotee's baby is placed on a temple floor for good luck during Diwali celebrations in the small town of Bangi, near Maylaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur. Hindus make up roughly 7% of Malaysia’s population of 25 million. However, Diwali is recognized in the predominantly Muslim country as an official holiday.

Reuters/Bazuki Muhammad

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is home to a sizable Hindu community, as much as 12% of the population. Here, Hindu devotees pray during Diwali at the Shivm Kovi temple in Sri Lanka’s cultural capital of Colombo. Alongside India, the island country recognizes Diwali as an official holiday.9601280

Sri Lanka is home to a sizable Hindu community, as much as 12% of the population. Here, Hindu devotees pray during Diwali at the Shivm Kovi temple in Sri Lanka’s cultural capital of Colombo. Alongside India, the island country recognizes Diwali as an official holiday.

Revelers throw tomatoes on each other during the world's biggest tomato fight at La Tomatina Festival in Bunol, Spain. 9601280

Revelers throw tomatoes on each other during the world's biggest tomato fight at La Tomatina Festival in Bunol, Spain.

Getty Images

Up to 45,000 people from all over the world descend on the small town near Valencia, Spain, each year. 9601280

Up to 45,000 people from all over the world descend on the small town near Valencia, Spain, each year.

Getty Images

Approximately 100 tons of rotten and over-ripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets.9601280

Approximately 100 tons of rotten and over-ripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets.

Getty Images

The weeklong festival kicks off on the last Wednesday in August, and includes music, parades, dancing, fireworks and food (other than tomatoes).9601280

The weeklong festival kicks off on the last Wednesday in August, and includes music, parades, dancing, fireworks and food (other than tomatoes).

Getty Images

No one knows why Tomatina started, but one popular theory dates its origins to a parade back in 1944 or 1945 in which young men started a brawl and armed themselves with tomatoes from a nearby vegetable stand.9601280

No one knows why Tomatina started, but one popular theory dates its origins to a parade back in 1944 or 1945 in which young men started a brawl and armed themselves with tomatoes from a nearby vegetable stand.

Denis Doyle

Banned by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco for lacking religious significance, the festival returned in the 1970s, and is in honor of the town's patron saints, Luis Bertran and the Mare de Deu dels Desemparats (Mother of God of the Defenseless), a title of the Virgin Mary.9601280

Banned by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco for lacking religious significance, the festival returned in the 1970s, and is in honor of the town's patron saints, Luis Bertran and the Mare de Deu dels Desemparats (Mother of God of the Defenseless), a title of the Virgin Mary.

flydime, wikimedia commons

Around 11 a.m., the first event begins in the center of town, Plaza del Pueblo, where trucks have hauled in over 100,000 tomatoes.9601280

Around 11 a.m., the first event begins in the center of town, Plaza del Pueblo, where trucks have hauled in over 100,000 tomatoes.

flydime, wikimedia commons

Officially, the fight begins after the palo jabón, a 2-story greased pole with a ham at the top -- although the festivities will start whether or not a climber knocks the prized ham off the pole.9601280

Officially, the fight begins after the palo jabón, a 2-story greased pole with a ham at the top -- although the festivities will start whether or not a climber knocks the prized ham off the pole.

flydime, wikimedia commons

Shopkeepers use huge plastic covers on their storefronts in hopes of protecting them from the festival’s tomato-splashed aftermath.9601280

Shopkeepers use huge plastic covers on their storefronts in hopes of protecting them from the festival’s tomato-splashed aftermath.

flydime, wikimedia commons

Tomatina lasts for exactly 1 hour, signaled by the firing of water cannons. Fire trucks then spray down the streets to flush away the tomato residue.9601280

Tomatina lasts for exactly 1 hour, signaled by the firing of water cannons. Fire trucks then spray down the streets to flush away the tomato residue.

Formal Tea

There are various places to enjoy a formal tea, but we suggest treating mom to tea and delicious snacks at the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia. Enjoy the Mother’s Day Tea with Betsy and get a quick history lesson from an impersonator about Betsy and her life.9601280

There are various places to enjoy a formal tea, but we suggest treating mom to tea and delicious snacks at the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia. Enjoy the Mother’s Day Tea with Betsy and get a quick history lesson from an impersonator about Betsy and her life.

Thinkstock

Go Paddle Boarding

Go Paddle Boarding

If your mom loves adventure, then head to the Hamptons in New York. Paddle Diva is offering 90-minute paddle boarding lessons to get mom ready for the summer. Try the paddle board Yoga class for a mind-body-spirit experience, if paddle boarding is something she may not enjoy.9601280

If your mom loves adventure, then head to the Hamptons in New York. Paddle Diva is offering 90-minute paddle boarding lessons to get mom ready for the summer. Try the paddle board Yoga class for a mind-body-spirit experience, if paddle boarding is something she may not enjoy.

Penumatsa Family, Flickr

Gourmet Chocolate Tour

Gourmet Chocolate Tour

Treat your mom to an indulgent afternoon of chocolate tastings on a Gourmet Chocolate Tour, starting at the Justin Herman Plaza in San Francisco. The 3-hour walking tour includes 7 different stops at downtown chocolate boutiques. All moms with the special Chocolate & Flowers package receive a colorful springtime bouquet. If chocolate is not her thing, there are alternative culinary walking tours that may fit your mother's taste.9601280

Treat your mom to an indulgent afternoon of chocolate tastings on a Gourmet Chocolate Tour, starting at the Justin Herman Plaza in San Francisco. The 3-hour walking tour includes 7 different stops at downtown chocolate boutiques. All moms with the special Chocolate & Flowers package receive a colorful springtime bouquet. If chocolate is not her thing, there are alternative culinary walking tours that may fit your mother's taste.

Bellagio Spa

If you happen to be in Las Vegas on Mother's Day, try the Spa & Salon deal at the Bellagio. Sip on tea and nibble on scones in a private suite, while you're getting an organic manicure and pedicure.9601280

If you happen to be in Las Vegas on Mother's Day, try the Spa & Salon deal at the Bellagio. Sip on tea and nibble on scones in a private suite, while you're getting an organic manicure and pedicure.

Bellagio

Yoga Retreat

Yoga Retreat

Give her the gift of wellness and renewal. Send her on a trip to the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. Help her de-stress and unwind with this relaxing retreat.9601280

Give her the gift of wellness and renewal. Send her on a trip to the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. Help her de-stress and unwind with this relaxing retreat.

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Cape Cod Brunch

Cape Cod Brunch

Visiting Cape Cod, MA, or nearby? Whisk mom away on a scenic train ride to see a different side of the Cape. The journey begins at the Hyannis station via Central Railroad. No need to pack a lunch, she’ll be served a gourmet 3-course brunch.9601280

Visiting Cape Cod, MA, or nearby? Whisk mom away on a scenic train ride to see a different side of the Cape. The journey begins at the Hyannis station via Central Railroad. No need to pack a lunch, she’ll be served a gourmet 3-course brunch.

Thinkstock

National Museum for Women in the Arts

National Museum for Women in the Arts

In Washington, DC, explore the National Museum for Women in the Arts, dedicated to highlighting women artists of the past while also promoting women artists working today. The museum has a collection of 4,500 works of art – spanning over 6 centuries – and it also features 10 world-class exhibitions of women artists each year. It’s a must-see museum for moms who are art aficionados.9601280

In Washington, DC, explore the National Museum for Women in the Arts, dedicated to highlighting women artists of the past while also promoting women artists working today. The museum has a collection of 4,500 works of art – spanning over 6 centuries – and it also features 10 world-class exhibitions of women artists each year. It’s a must-see museum for moms who are art aficionados.

Dakota Fine

Fitness Camp

Fitness Camp

Work it out! Moms who enjoy a healthy lifestyle may enjoy a weekend at the Woman’s Fitness Camp at Camp Chief Ouray in Granby, CO. The camp, scheduled in August, fills up quickly; so make reservations soon.9601280

Work it out! Moms who enjoy a healthy lifestyle may enjoy a weekend at the Woman’s Fitness Camp at Camp Chief Ouray in Granby, CO. The camp, scheduled in August, fills up quickly; so make reservations soon.

Thinkstock

Ghost Tour

Ghost Tour

Take mom on a spooky ghost tour in Ocala, FL, where they offer ghost walks and historical tours for free, but to mothers only. Learn about Ocala’s supernatural history, and make sure you stop by the Seven Sisters Inn, the site of several unexplained paranormal phenomena.9601280

Take mom on a spooky ghost tour in Ocala, FL, where they offer ghost walks and historical tours for free, but to mothers only. Learn about Ocala’s supernatural history, and make sure you stop by the Seven Sisters Inn, the site of several unexplained paranormal phenomena.

Blowing Rock Winterfest

Head to the mountains of North Carolina for the annual Blowing Rock Winterfest. This lively winterfest features a plunge into the icy waters of Lake Chetola, followed by the chance to warm up with hot chocolate and chili in downtown Blowing Rock. When: Late January9601280

Head to the mountains of North Carolina for the annual Blowing Rock Winterfest. This lively winterfest features a plunge into the icy waters of Lake Chetola, followed by the chance to warm up with hot chocolate and chili in downtown Blowing Rock. When: Late January

Todd Bush Photography

Vancouver Polar Bear Swim

Vancouver Polar Bear Swim

Run for your life! This group of New Year’s revelers rushes from the freezing waters of Vancouver’s English Bay. 2014 marks the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim’s 94th year, making it one of the largest and oldest clubs of its kind in the world. When: New Year's Day9601280

Run for your life! This group of New Year’s revelers rushes from the freezing waters of Vancouver’s English Bay. 2014 marks the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim’s 94th year, making it one of the largest and oldest clubs of its kind in the world. When: New Year's Day

Reuters

Courage Polar Bear Dip

Courage Polar Bear Dip

Courage, lads! Since its start in 1985, the annual Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville, Ontario, has become the largest polar bear dip for charity in Canada. Money raised supports clean water projects organized by the advocacy organization World Vision Canada. When: New Year’s Day 9601280

Courage, lads! Since its start in 1985, the annual Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville, Ontario, has become the largest polar bear dip for charity in Canada. Money raised supports clean water projects organized by the advocacy organization World Vision Canada. When: New Year’s Day

Courage Polar Bear Dip

Seattle Polar Bear Plunge

Seattle Polar Bear Plunge

They’re freezin’ for a reason. Plungers take to the waters off Seattle’s Matthews Beach for the city’s annual polar bear plunge. Now in its 12th year, the Seattle Polar Bear Plunge is one of 8 statewide plunges to benefit Special Olympics Washington. When: New Year’s Day9601280

They’re freezin’ for a reason. Plungers take to the waters off Seattle’s Matthews Beach for the city’s annual polar bear plunge. Now in its 12th year, the Seattle Polar Bear Plunge is one of 8 statewide plunges to benefit Special Olympics Washington. When: New Year’s Day

mordac, flickr

Aruba New Year's Plunge

Aruba New Year's Plunge

In search of warmer climes to take the plunge? Head to Aruba for the Caribbean island’s annual Aruba New Year's Plunge. Hundreds of people gather at MooMba Beach for the “Unox Nieuwjaarsduik” (New Year’s plunge), which takes place at noon sharp. The event is open to everyone; no charge. When: New Year’s Day 9601280

In search of warmer climes to take the plunge? Head to Aruba for the Caribbean island’s annual Aruba New Year's Plunge. Hundreds of people gather at MooMba Beach for the “Unox Nieuwjaarsduik” (New Year’s plunge), which takes place at noon sharp. The event is open to everyone; no charge. When: New Year’s Day

Aruba Daily Newspaper

Coney Island Plunge

Coney Island Plunge

Cold enough for you? These 2 brave guys take part in the annual Coney Island Plunge organized by the Coney Island Polar Bear Club, the oldest ice swimming club in the US. The yearly dip into the Atlantic begins at 1 p.m. sharp; afterward, if you’re still breathing, check out the famous Coney Island boardwalk. When: Jan. 19601280

Cold enough for you? These 2 brave guys take part in the annual Coney Island Plunge organized by the Coney Island Polar Bear Club, the oldest ice swimming club in the US. The yearly dip into the Atlantic begins at 1 p.m. sharp; afterward, if you’re still breathing, check out the famous Coney Island boardwalk. When: Jan. 1

Getty Images

Russian Orthodox Epiphany

Russian Orthodox Epiphany

In the name of the …wow, this water is cold! A Russian man celebrates the Russian Orthodox Epiphany with a dip in frigid waters. The age-old ritual commemorates Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, but we have a feeling the Jordan’s waters were a lot less cold. When: Mid-January9601280

In the name of the …wow, this water is cold! A Russian man celebrates the Russian Orthodox Epiphany with a dip in frigid waters. The age-old ritual commemorates Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, but we have a feeling the Jordan’s waters were a lot less cold. When: Mid-January

Reuters

Tybee Polar Plunge

Tybee Polar Plunge

Thousands of people flock to Tybee Island, near Savannah, GA, for the annual Tybee Polar Plunge plunge into the brisk waters of the Atlantic. Plungers register for a nominal fee, with proceeds going toward the historic Tybee Post Theater, built in 1930. When: New Year’s Day9601280

Thousands of people flock to Tybee Island, near Savannah, GA, for the annual Tybee Polar Plunge plunge into the brisk waters of the Atlantic. Plungers register for a nominal fee, with proceeds going toward the historic Tybee Post Theater, built in 1930. When: New Year’s Day

Tybee Polar Plunge

Scotland's Loony Dook

Scotland's Loony Dook

Showing their white-and-blue Scottish pride, these 2 “loony dookers” take a dip in Scotland’s River Forth. The annual Loony Dook event in Scotland began in 1987 with a handful of participants; the event has since grown into a New Year’s rite of passage for thousands. When: New Year’s Day 9601280

Showing their white-and-blue Scottish pride, these 2 “loony dookers” take a dip in Scotland’s River Forth. The annual Loony Dook event in Scotland began in 1987 with a handful of participants; the event has since grown into a New Year’s rite of passage for thousands. When: New Year’s Day

Lee Carson, flickr

Baltimore PlungeFest

Baltimore PlungeFest

Holy moly, ma, Darth Vader’s not wearing any clothes under that cape! This wickedly cool plunger takes a dip in the Chesapeake Bay’s cold waters near Baltimore. The annual Baltimore PlungeFest kicks off in Annapolis, MD’s Sandy Point State Park, with proceeds going to Special Olympics Maryland. When: Late January9601280

Holy moly, ma, Darth Vader’s not wearing any clothes under that cape! This wickedly cool plunger takes a dip in the Chesapeake Bay’s cold waters near Baltimore. The annual Baltimore PlungeFest kicks off in Annapolis, MD’s Sandy Point State Park, with proceeds going to Special Olympics Maryland. When: Late January

Steve Ruark Photography

Chicago Polar Plunge

Chicago Polar Plunge

Skip the clothes, grab a wig! Celebrate the New Year (and a good cause) with hundreds of revelers who dive into the icy waters of Chicago’s Lake Michigan in early spring. 2014 marks Chicago Polar Plunge’s 14th year, with proceeds going toward Special Olympics Chicago. When: Early March9601280

Skip the clothes, grab a wig! Celebrate the New Year (and a good cause) with hundreds of revelers who dive into the icy waters of Chicago’s Lake Michigan in early spring. 2014 marks Chicago Polar Plunge’s 14th year, with proceeds going toward Special Olympics Chicago. When: Early March

Grace Trivino, flickr

Netherlands New Year's

Netherlands New Year's

Wearing colorful vestments, this man takes a dip in the waters off Scheveningen, a beachside resort town in the Netherlands. The annual event began in 1960, and attracts more than 10,000 people, who plunge into the icy North Sea on New Year’s Day. When: Jan. 19601280

Wearing colorful vestments, this man takes a dip in the waters off Scheveningen, a beachside resort town in the Netherlands. The annual event began in 1960, and attracts more than 10,000 people, who plunge into the icy North Sea on New Year’s Day. When: Jan. 1

Beijing

An illuminated Christmas tree is seen in front of the National Stadium to celebrate Christmas Eve in Beijing. Christmas is not a public holiday in China, but it is celebrated across the country as Western traditions have become increasingly popular.9601280

An illuminated Christmas tree is seen in front of the National Stadium to celebrate Christmas Eve in Beijing. Christmas is not a public holiday in China, but it is celebrated across the country as Western traditions have become increasingly popular.

Sydney, Australia

The Christmas holiday falls during Australia's summer it is popular to go camping during this time. Natives decorate their homes with trees and lights, but also display bunches of "Christmas Bush," a native Australian tree with small green leaves and cream-colored flowers that turn red in summer. In each state capital, there is a "Carols by Candlelight" service where famous performers sing holiday favorites.9601280

The Christmas holiday falls during Australia's summer it is popular to go camping during this time. Natives decorate their homes with trees and lights, but also display bunches of "Christmas Bush," a native Australian tree with small green leaves and cream-colored flowers that turn red in summer. In each state capital, there is a "Carols by Candlelight" service where famous performers sing holiday favorites.

Jeremy Ng, Getty

Belarus

Belarus

Performers sing Christmas carols, locally known as "kolyadki," in the Belarussian village of Semezhevo, about 100 miles south-west of Minsk. Many Orthodox Belarusians mark the New Year according to the Julian calendar. 9601280

Performers sing Christmas carols, locally known as "kolyadki," in the Belarussian village of Semezhevo, about 100 miles south-west of Minsk. Many Orthodox Belarusians mark the New Year according to the Julian calendar.

Viktor Drachev, AFP/Getty

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany

Christmas angels and Santa Claus ride on Segways in Berlin. In Germany, Advent calendars are a big part of the holiday celebration. Several types are used, including 2 made from fir tree branches. One has 24 decorated boxes hanging from it while the other features 4 candles.9601280

Christmas angels and Santa Claus ride on Segways in Berlin. In Germany, Advent calendars are a big part of the holiday celebration. Several types are used, including 2 made from fir tree branches. One has 24 decorated boxes hanging from it while the other features 4 candles.

Wolfgang Kumm, Getty

Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, Canada

The Rideau Canal Waterway in Ottawa, Canada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is lit up for the holidays. There are many Christmas traditions in Canada due to the various cultural backgrounds in the country. Some open gifts on Christmas Eve and others wait till Christmas Day. Other types of celebrations include a "Taffy Pull" (a party for singles to meet) and "Sinck Tuck" (dancing and gift exchanges).9601280

The Rideau Canal Waterway in Ottawa, Canada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is lit up for the holidays. There are many Christmas traditions in Canada due to the various cultural backgrounds in the country. Some open gifts on Christmas Eve and others wait till Christmas Day. Other types of celebrations include a "Taffy Pull" (a party for singles to meet) and "Sinck Tuck" (dancing and gift exchanges).

John Talbot, flickr

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Fireworks explode near a traditional Rio de Janeiro Christmas tree during the official lighting ceremony at Rodrigo de Freitas Lake. In Brazil, Santa Claus is called Papai Noel. Favorite holiday foods include chicken, turkey, ham, rice, pork, and fresh and dried fruits.9601280

Fireworks explode near a traditional Rio de Janeiro Christmas tree during the official lighting ceremony at Rodrigo de Freitas Lake. In Brazil, Santa Claus is called Papai Noel. Favorite holiday foods include chicken, turkey, ham, rice, pork, and fresh and dried fruits.

Mexico

An actor performs on the streets during the "Three Kings Day" festival in Mexico City. "Three Kings Day" is a Christian holiday in Mexico that celebrates the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the baby Christ.9601280

An actor performs on the streets during the "Three Kings Day" festival in Mexico City. "Three Kings Day" is a Christian holiday in Mexico that celebrates the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the baby Christ.

Henry Romero, Reuters

London

London

Christmas traditions in the UK are much like the US. Christmas trees, holly and mistletoe are used as decorations. One difference: instead of milk and cookies, the children in London often leave mince pies and brandy for Father Christmas.9601280

Christmas traditions in the UK are much like the US. Christmas trees, holly and mistletoe are used as decorations. One difference: instead of milk and cookies, the children in London often leave mince pies and brandy for Father Christmas.

Reuters

Italy

Italy

The Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, adorned with Christmas lights, is pictured in downtown Milan. One of the biggest ways to celebrate the holiday in Italy is by displaying the Nativity crib scene. Many families display the cribs in their homes and place a baby Jesus in it on the night of Dec. 24.9601280

The Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, adorned with Christmas lights, is pictured in downtown Milan. One of the biggest ways to celebrate the holiday in Italy is by displaying the Nativity crib scene. Many families display the cribs in their homes and place a baby Jesus in it on the night of Dec. 24.

Alessandro Garofalo, Reuters

Russia

Russia

People dressed as Father Frost, the equivalent of Santa Claus, and Snow Maiden greet passers-by during a New Year's parade in Bishkek, Russia. In Russia, New Year's celebrations are very important (sometimes more than Christmas). Father Frost brings presents to children. The traditional greeting on New Year's is "S Novym Godom."9601280

People dressed as Father Frost, the equivalent of Santa Claus, and Snow Maiden greet passers-by during a New Year's parade in Bishkek, Russia. In Russia, New Year's celebrations are very important (sometimes more than Christmas). Father Frost brings presents to children. The traditional greeting on New Year's is "S Novym Godom."

Vladimir Pirogov, Reuters

Bondi Beach, Australia

Bondi Beach, Australia

Australia's world famous Bondi Beach hosts the annual Sunburnt Christmas Festival on Christmas Day. About 4000 partygoers celebrate a summertime Christmas on the beach with DJs, bikini contests and an Aussie BBQ lunch.9601280

Australia's world famous Bondi Beach hosts the annual Sunburnt Christmas Festival on Christmas Day. About 4000 partygoers celebrate a summertime Christmas on the beach with DJs, bikini contests and an Aussie BBQ lunch.

Getty Images

Finland

Finland

Rovaniemi, Finland is proud to be the official home of Santa Claus. Visit the Santa Claus Village in Lapland anytime of the year to meet Father Christmas and cross the magical Arctic Circle. After you meet Santa, take a sleigh ride with traditional Sami reindeer and learn more about Lapland’s native people.9601280

Rovaniemi, Finland is proud to be the official home of Santa Claus. Visit the Santa Claus Village in Lapland anytime of the year to meet Father Christmas and cross the magical Arctic Circle. After you meet Santa, take a sleigh ride with traditional Sami reindeer and learn more about Lapland’s native people.

Tarja Mitrovic, flickr

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland

Christmas in Reykjavik is a magical time with its winter landscape and unique traditions. Visit the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur or Reykjavik's main Christmas Market in Ingólfstorg Square for unique holiday gifts and Yuletide music. And for children, there are not just one, but 13 Santas, or Yule Lads, bearing gifts. 9601280

Christmas in Reykjavik is a magical time with its winter landscape and unique traditions. Visit the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur or Reykjavik's main Christmas Market in Ingólfstorg Square for unique holiday gifts and Yuletide music. And for children, there are not just one, but 13 Santas, or Yule Lads, bearing gifts.

Visit Reykjavik

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg, Germany

One of the most impressive Christmas markets in Europe can be found in Nuremberg, Germany. The sprawling market in the city's Old Quarter has more than 200 vendors that sell seasonal and traditional goods, like mulled wine and handmade ornaments. And a wooden Ferris wheel, carousel and steam train create a winter wonderland for children.9601280

One of the most impressive Christmas markets in Europe can be found in Nuremberg, Germany. The sprawling market in the city's Old Quarter has more than 200 vendors that sell seasonal and traditional goods, like mulled wine and handmade ornaments. And a wooden Ferris wheel, carousel and steam train create a winter wonderland for children.

Fly-Fishing, Idaho

For the dad who loves fly-fishing … book a rustic vacation by the bend of a river. Eastern Idaho’s Natural Retreats South Fork Lodge rests along the south fork of Snake River, the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. It’s also one of the best places in the US for tailwater and dry fly fisheries.9601280

For the dad who loves fly-fishing … book a rustic vacation by the bend of a river. Eastern Idaho’s Natural Retreats South Fork Lodge rests along the south fork of Snake River, the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. It’s also one of the best places in the US for tailwater and dry fly fisheries.

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Rock Climbing, Utah

Rock Climbing, Utah

For the dad who likes to live on the edge … head to Moab, UT, the adventure capital of America. Popular places include Wall Street, a sandstone cliff along the Colorado River. After a day of climbing, Dad can unwind with a hearty meal of Grilled Cowboy Steak at Sorrel River Ranch.9601280

For the dad who likes to live on the edge … head to Moab, UT, the adventure capital of America. Popular places include Wall Street, a sandstone cliff along the Colorado River. After a day of climbing, Dad can unwind with a hearty meal of Grilled Cowboy Steak at Sorrel River Ranch.

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Mega-Male Spa Treatment at the Arizona Biltmore

Mega-Male Spa Treatment at the Arizona Biltmore

For the dad who needs a little pampering … treat him to a mega-male spa treatment at the Arizona Biltmore, a resort crowned the “Jewel of the Desert” when it opened in 1929. Spa options include the deep tissue and soothing back treatments.9601280

For the dad who needs a little pampering … treat him to a mega-male spa treatment at the Arizona Biltmore, a resort crowned the “Jewel of the Desert” when it opened in 1929. Spa options include the deep tissue and soothing back treatments.

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Golf Getaway, Wyoming

Golf Getaway, Wyoming

For the dad who likes to tee it up … treat him to a golf getaway at Hotel Terra near Jackson Hole, WY. Dad will enjoy a round of golf on a Robert Trent Jones course. When he’s not hitting the green, he can explore Grand Teton and Yellowstone.9601280

For the dad who likes to tee it up … treat him to a golf getaway at Hotel Terra near Jackson Hole, WY. Dad will enjoy a round of golf on a Robert Trent Jones course. When he’s not hitting the green, he can explore Grand Teton and Yellowstone.

Tuck Fauntleroy

Paintball, West Virginia

Paintball, West Virginia

For the dad who likes to let loose … kapow! See Dad put his strategic skills to the test in the forests of West Virginia at Ambush West Virginia’s paintball center. He’ll enjoy a real-life gaming adventure on a 4-acre paintball course, with game options such as Civil War-style battles and the ever-popular “Capture the Flag.”9601280

For the dad who likes to let loose … kapow! See Dad put his strategic skills to the test in the forests of West Virginia at Ambush West Virginia’s paintball center. He’ll enjoy a real-life gaming adventure on a 4-acre paintball course, with game options such as Civil War-style battles and the ever-popular “Capture the Flag.”

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Skydiving, Chicagoland

Skydiving, Chicagoland

For the dad who’s got skydiving on his bucket list … help him score bragging rights (and maybe a few laughs) with a tandem skydive. Dad will get his “knees in the breeze” as he ascends 18,000 feet in an aircraft courtesy of the Chicagoland Skydiving Center, one of the safest skydiving facilities in the US.9601280

For the dad who’s got skydiving on his bucket list … help him score bragging rights (and maybe a few laughs) with a tandem skydive. Dad will get his “knees in the breeze” as he ascends 18,000 feet in an aircraft courtesy of the Chicagoland Skydiving Center, one of the safest skydiving facilities in the US.

Paracaidismo Chile, flickr

Foodie Getaway, New Orleans

Foodie Getaway, New Orleans

For the foodie dad … satisfy his gourmet taste buds with a trip to the Crescent City. Try the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, where Dad will enjoy a breakfast buffet at 8 Block Kitchen & Bar with classic and local menu options such as fried-oyster eggs Benedict and New Orleans beignets.9601280

For the foodie dad … satisfy his gourmet taste buds with a trip to the Crescent City. Try the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, where Dad will enjoy a breakfast buffet at 8 Block Kitchen & Bar with classic and local menu options such as fried-oyster eggs Benedict and New Orleans beignets.

Besh Restaurant Group

Diving, Grand Cayman

Diving, Grand Cayman

For the diving dad … he just might love Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. The 5.5-mile beach has received travel mag accolades as “the Caribbean’s best beach.” During his stay at the Westin Grand Cayman (where the fifth night is free), Dad will enjoy diving beneath the area’s aquamarine waters -- and seeing coral reefs, colorful fish and even shipwrecks.9601280

For the diving dad … he just might love Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. The 5.5-mile beach has received travel mag accolades as “the Caribbean’s best beach.” During his stay at the Westin Grand Cayman (where the fifth night is free), Dad will enjoy diving beneath the area’s aquamarine waters -- and seeing coral reefs, colorful fish and even shipwrecks.

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Brewery Tour

Brewery Tour

For the dad who can appreciate a good craft ale … take him to a major <a title="beer destination" href="www.travelchannel.com/interests/food-and-drink/articles/top-7-beer-destinations" target="_blank">beer destination</a>. Our top picks for Dad: Portland, OR, which has more breweries per capita than any other city in the US; and Milwaukee, home to 4 of the world’s largest breweries. 9601280

For the dad who can appreciate a good craft ale … take him to a major <a title="beer destination" href="www.travelchannel.com/interests/food-and-drink/articles/top-7-beer-destinations" target="_blank">beer destination</a>. Our top picks for Dad: Portland, OR, which has more breweries per capita than any other city in the US; and Milwaukee, home to 4 of the world’s largest breweries.

Star 5112, flickr

Flight School, Florida

Flight School, Florida

For the dad who always wished he could do something really cool … help his dreams take flight. Cover his admission to Paragon Flight, an FAA-approved flight training center. Dad will enjoy the scenic flights over Florida, and will be speaking pilot lingo in no time.9601280

For the dad who always wished he could do something really cool … help his dreams take flight. Cover his admission to Paragon Flight, an FAA-approved flight training center. Dad will enjoy the scenic flights over Florida, and will be speaking pilot lingo in no time.

NASCAR Glory, Myrtle Beach

For the dad with a need for speed … treat him to short-track racing stint at the Myrtle Beach Speedway. The racecourse has been the training grounds for some of NASCAR’s top names like Dale Earnhardt Jr. Now it’s Dad’s turn to shine. See Dad zoom around the half-mile racetrack in a NASCAR vehicle -- at speeds of about 100 mph. 9601280

For the dad with a need for speed … treat him to short-track racing stint at the Myrtle Beach Speedway. The racecourse has been the training grounds for some of NASCAR’s top names like Dale Earnhardt Jr. Now it’s Dad’s turn to shine. See Dad zoom around the half-mile racetrack in a NASCAR vehicle -- at speeds of about 100 mph.

TheDigitel, flickr

Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Connecticut

Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Connecticut

For the dad seeking high-stakes gaming fun … head to the largest resort casino in the Western Hemisphere. A complex of 6 casinos, Foxwoods Resort Casino spans 4,700,000 square feet. For something closer to home, check out more of America’s high-stakes casinos.9601280

For the dad seeking high-stakes gaming fun … head to the largest resort casino in the Western Hemisphere. A complex of 6 casinos, Foxwoods Resort Casino spans 4,700,000 square feet. For something closer to home, check out more of America’s high-stakes casinos.